Mother, daughter, sister, teacher, dog lover

Shannon Scott died March 23 from complications of pneumonia following a brief hospitalization. She was 53 years old.

Born in Pomona on October 25, 1969, she was raised in Claremont where she attended Sumner Elementary School, El Roble Intermediate School, and Claremont High School. She was active in local theater, participating in many Karousel Kids productions including a memorable turn as the Wicked Witch of the West in “The Wizard of Oz.”

Shannon earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from University of La Verne in 1992. After graduation she worked for the Ontario-Montclair Unified School District for 27 years, starting as a third-grade teacher at Lehigh Elementary School. At the district, she taught both elementary and middle school and worked as a mentor for beginning teachers. She touched the lives of many students and teachers during her long career in education.

After living in Arcadia and Monrovia, she and her family moved back to Claremont in 2004.  One of the greatest joys of her life was being a mother to her son, Clayton. She was active in his schools and with Claremont Little League while he was growing up. Few things brought her greater joy than cheering on “Clay” in all his endeavors on and off the field.

She had a special connection with dogs and always had a loyal canine companion. She will be remembered for her love of decorating, fashion, and clothes. She loved hosting family and friends and enjoyed having her house at the center of the action.

She is survived by her son Clayton; parents, Caren Whiteside and Dennis and Mary Pope; sisters Heather (Paul), and Rebecca; nieces and nephews; and her beloved dog, Zoie.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, June 19 at Garner House, 840 N. Indian Hill Blvd., Claremont 91711.